Norwich-based plant scientists are developing a new line of fast-growing broccoli which they claim could potentially double crop production.

Researchers at the John Innes Centre (JIC) have bred an experimental variety of sprouting broccoli which goes from seed to harvest in 8-10 weeks – offering the potential to deliver two full crops a season.

They say it could also be grown all year round in protected conditions, which could help with continuity of supply, as growers would no longer be reliant on seasonal weather conditions.

The new broccoli line, developed using conventional breeding techniques, builds on the fundamental research carried out by Prof Caroline Dean on vernalisation – the need for some plants to experience a period of cold weather before they can flower.

Dr Judith Irwin and her team, working with Prof Dean, have focused on translating this knowledge to brassica crops.

She said: 'We harnessed our knowledge of how plants regulate the flowering process to remove the requirement for a period of cold temperature and bring this new broccoli line to harvest faster. This means growers could turn around two field-based crops in one season, or if the broccoli is grown in protected conditions, four or five crops in a year.'

The new broccoli line developed at the JIC is one of a number that have been selected to address the issue of seasonality and as a step towards reduce crops' vulnerability to fluctuations in climate – illustrated earlier this month by the adverse weather in Spain which led to a shortage of courgettes, iceberg lettuce and broccoli.

'This is a very exciting development as it has the potential to remove our exposure to seasonal weather fluctuations from crop production,' said Dr Irwin. 'This could mean broccoli – and in future other vegetables where the flower is eaten, for example, cauliflowers – can be grown anywhere at any time enabling continuous production and supply of fresh local produce.'

Dr Irwin and her team are now testing further generations under conventional glasshouse and controlled environment conditions.

In order for this experimental line to become a commercial crop, the next steps involve flavour and nutritional analysis, and performance testing under commercial growing conditions.